17 Types of Environmental Scientists | Jobs, Education, and Careers

Environmental scientists and specialists have a huge influence on our understanding and protection of the planet. These experts examine the interactions between human activities and nature putting in effort to address major environmental issues. They check air and water quality investigate ecosystems, and develop sustainable answers. Through this work, different types of environmental scientists play a crucial role in efforts to maintain our planet’s health and safeguard its future.

Environmental science covers many areas, each of which focuses on particular parts of the environment. Here, we’ll see various environmental scientists and specialists, such as biologists who specialize in marine environments, scientists who specialize in the health of the environment, biologists who specialize in the conservation of wildlife, and analysts who analyze the effects of climate change on the environment. And, by looking at their main jobs and duties, you’ll get an idea of the huge variety of career options in this key field and the important work these experts do to protect and save our environment.

Different Types of Environmental Scientists and Specialists

There are many types of environmental scientists and specialists which include Marine Biologists, Environmental Health Specialists, Environmental Protection Specialists, Environmental Chemists, Wildlife Biologists, Geoscientists, Environmental Lawyers, Hydrologists, Environmental Engineers, Climate Change Policy Analysts, Water Resource Specialists, Environmental Consultants, Environmental Microbiologists, and many more. Let’s discuss everything in detail below:

Environmental Scientists

Environmental scientists tackle major issues like pollution and deforestation. They operate in various settings including universities private labs, and government offices at local, state, and federal levels. These specialists conduct fieldwork collecting samples of soil, water, and air to monitor ecosystems and fix environmental problems.

Environmental Scientist Responsibilities

Environmental scientists job is to make sure projects follow regulations and minimize impacts on the environment, wildlife, and cultural sites. These specialists conduct studies on environmental effects, propose methods to reduce negative impacts, and collaborate with engineers, technicians, and project managers.

Their work often involves extensive travel and considerable time spent at proposed wind farm sites. For example, environmental scientists play a crucial part in wind farm development. Their job is to assess the environmental impact of wind farms, like noise, air pollution, and water use. Also, they help figure out the best sites for wind farms based on things like wind speed and terrain.

Environmental Scientist Education

To start this career, you need a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. This degree gives you a broad grasp of today’s environmental problems and tests at local, national, and global levels. Your studies will cover environmental biology, geography, geology, chemistry, and resource management.

Environmental Scientist Career Prospects

Environmental scientists make $76,530 a year on average, with 87,100 job openings out there. To do well in this field, you must know environmental laws and rules, talk well, think, and team up with others. Some graduates choose to study more to specialize or enter specific areas like environmental health.

Marine Biologist

Marine biologists study sea life and its interactions with the environment. They research how ocean creatures behave, understand their body functions, and assess human impact on marine ecosystems. These scientists work in various settings, including research facilities, government agencies, and academic institutions.

Marine Biologist Responsibilities

Marine biologists count sea species, check how pollution affects sea life, and gather ocean samples. They also look at habitat conditions map where species live, and suggest better ways for industries to work without hurting marine life. Some focus on marine biotechnology to find ways to use sea creatures’ special traits in industry.

Marine Biologist Education

You need a bachelor’s or master’s degree to begin a career in marine biology research. Many students earn degrees in biology, zoology, fisheries, or ecology. You must complete courses in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and statistics. Classes in public policy and writing play a crucial role too. A Ph.D. is necessary if you aim to conduct independent research or become a professor.

Marine Biologist Career Prospects

The job market for biologists is set to expand by 5% from 2018 to 2028, according to Indeed.com. The same source states that biologists receive a median annual salary of $63,420. Marine biologists can secure positions in various settings including government offices private labs, aquariums, and universities. To advance their careers, these experts must demonstrate commitment, exert effort, and establish relationships with fellow professionals in their field.

Environmental Health Specialists

Environmental health specialists play a crucial part in safeguarding public health and the environment. They conduct research, investigate hazards, and enforce regulations to maintain the health and safety of communities. These professionals dedicate themselves to addressing pressing environmental issues and minimizing society’s impact on ecosystems.

Environmental Health Specialist Responsibilities

These health specialists have many duties such as:

• Checking facilities like restaurants, schools, and industrial places.
• Taking and testing environmental samples.
• Applying health and safety rules.
• Looking into disease outbreaks and environmental health issues.
• Creating plans to boost health security.

Environmental Health Specialist Education

To become an environmental health specialist, you need a bachelor’s degree in environmental health or a related subject like biology, chemistry, or environmental science. Many experts choose to get a Master of Public Health with an environmental health focus to boost their careers. This field requires classes in statistics, toxicology, and physics.

Career Opportunities for Environmental Health Experts

The future shines bright for environmental health experts. They’re looking at a pretty good job scene with jobs expected to go up 8% from 2019 to 2029. That’s quicker than the usual rate for all kinds of work. Since stuff like climate change and various environmental problems aren’t going anywhere and will keep messing with folks all over the globe, it looks like there’s gonna be a bigger call for professional in public health to focus on these issues.

Environmental Protection Specialists

Environmental protection specialists play a crucial role in defending our environment and ensuring adherence to regulations. Collaborating with scientists, managers, and engineers, they work to enhance and protect environmental quality. They aim to manage pollution and repair environmental damage. You’ll find these professionals working not just for government bodies but also for private firms and non-profits concentrating on environmental issues.

Environmental Protection Specialist Responsibilities

These specialists have a wide range of duties, including:

• Inspecting sites and gathering samples to analyze.
• Keeping an eye on and enforcing environmental rules.
• Creating plans to clean up air, water, and land pollution.
• Writing up technical reports and environmental assessments.
• Assessing suggested projects to determine their environmental impact.
• Working out cooperative agreements with interested parties.

Environmental Protection Specialist Education

You need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, or a similar subject to start in this field. Some jobs might ask for a master’s degree or specific training. Classes often cover biological ideas how to manage the environment, and laws about protecting nature.

Environmental Protection Specialist Career Prospects

The job market for environmental protection specialists looks promising, with employment expected to increase 8% between 2019 and 2029 outpacing the average growth rate.

Environmental Chemists

Environmental chemists play a crucial role in understanding and minimizing the impact of chemicals on our ecosystems. These skilled experts study how pollutants exist and move in soil, water, and air. They also assess how these substances affect the environment and human health.

Environmental Chemist Responsibilities

These experts have a range of duties, including:

• Keeping track of chemical presence in air, water, and soil.
• Evaluating long-term risks to ecological and human health.
• Overseeing on-site cleanup projects.
• Performing laboratory analysis using cutting-edge techniques.
• Creating data collection methods and systems.
• Writing reports and showing research results.

Environmental Chemist Education

You need a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or environmental science to become an environmental chemist. Some jobs might ask for a master’s degree. Students should take organic and biochemistry classes, along with related subjects like oceanography, ecology, and geology. It’s also essential to learn how to use chemical analysis software.

Environmental Chemist Career Prospects

The job market for environmental scientists, including chemists, looks promising. Jobs in this field are expected to grow by 11% from 2016 to 2026, which is faster than average. New employees can make between £20,000 and £55,000, depending on their expertise and experience. As environmental chemists progress in their careers, they might become leaders or specialists in certain areas. Job opportunities exist in consulting firms, government agencies, and academic institutions.

Wildlife Biologists

Wildlife biologists study how animals live, act, and where they make their homes in the wild. They play a key role in protecting nature and taking care of ecosystems. These dedicated experts work in all sorts of places, from offices to mountaintops dry deserts to wet marshes, and thick forests to wide-open grasslands.

Wildlife Biologist Responsibilities

They have many duties such as:

• Carrying out census projects and research studies.
• Breaking down complex data and ecosystems.
• Catching, marking, or moving animals to protect them.
• Creating plans for land and water use.
• Studying how business ventures affect local animals.
• Working with game wardens and animal caretakers.

Wildlife Biologist Education

To become a wildlife biologist, you need a bachelor’s degree. This degree can be in wildlife biology, zoology, or a related field. Your coursework should cover wildlife subjects, zoology, botany, and physical sciences. Many positions require candidates with a master’s degree or Ph.D. You also have the option to obtain a professional certificate such as the Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB), from The Wildlife Society.

Wildlife Biologist Career Prospects

Wildlife biologists have a promising career ahead. Their job market will grow by 8% through 2026. They can land jobs in government agencies, nonprofits, and companies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects about 1,500 job openings each year from 2022 to 2032.

Geoscientists

Geoscientists study the Earth’s physical features, including its composition, structure, and the forces that shape it. They help us grasp our planet’s past, present, and potential future. These experts work in various fields, from safeguarding the environment to exploring natural resources.

Geoscientist Responsibilities

Geoscientists have interesting and diverse duties:

• Doing fieldwork to gather samples and map out sites.
• Looking at data from different sources, like aerial photos and rock specimens.
• Drawing up geological maps and diagrams.
• Writing scientific reports and sharing what they’ve found.
• Using cutting-edge tools like ground-penetrating radar and electron microscopes.
• Overseeing technicians and working with other scientists.

Geoscientist Education

To become a geoscientist, you need a bachelor’s degree in geoscience or a related subject. Many employers favor candidates with a master’s degree or PhD. Key subjects include:

• Geology.
• Geophysics.
• Geochemistry.
• Environmental Geology.
• Field methods.

Some states require geoscientists to obtain a license to work on public service projects.

Geoscientist Career Prospects

Geoscientists have a bright job outlook, with employment expected to increase by 14% from 2016 to 2026, which is quicker than the average for all jobs. Job opportunities exist in various fields such as:

• Natural resource exploration and development.
• Environmental protection and preservation.
• Oceanography.
• Atmospheric studies.
• Space exploration.

As Earth’s resources and environmental problems remain key concerns, the need for capable geoscientists will stay high.

Environmental Lawyers

Environmental lawyers have a big impact on safeguarding nature and tackling environmental issues. They deal with topics like climate change, air and water quality, renewable energy, waste handling and management. These committed experts work in many areas such as government bodies, nonprofits, law offices, and businesses.

Environmental Lawyer Responsibilities

These lawyers take on various duties such as:

• Examining information from legal cases and court trials.
• Speaking up for environmental rules and safeguards.
• Drafting legal letters and papers.
• Suggesting ways to fix issues for those who break the rules.
• Evaluating harm and effects on the environment.
• Standing up for clients in courtrooms and official hearings.

Environmental Lawyer Education

To become an environmental lawyer, you usually need:

1. A bachelor’s degree (popular subjects include environmental studies political science or economics).
2. A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school the ABA (American Bar Association) approves.
3. To pass the bar exam.

The whole process typically takes about seven years.

Environmental Lawyer Career Prospects

The job outlook for attorneys, including environmental lawyers, looks good, with employment expected to increase by 10% from 2021 to 2031. Many companies prefer to hire environmental lawyers with at least five years of experience in government agencies. As environmental issues keep growing, the need for capable environmental lawyers will stay high.

Hydrologists

Hydrologists study water properties and tackle water-related problems. They examine water distribution, movement, and quality, teaming up with environmental scientists and engineers to safeguard this key resource.

Hydrologist Responsibilities

Hydrologists handle various tasks such as:

• Gathering water samples from different sources.
• Determining pollution levels and water characteristics.
• Evaluating data with computer models.
• Predicting floods, snowstorms, and droughts.
• Creating ways to lessen environmental effects.
• Crafting reports and showing results.

Hydrologist Education

To work as a hydrologist, you need a bachelor’s degree in hydrology environmental science, geoscience, or engineering with a focus on hydrology. Many companies prefer job seekers with a master’s degree or higher. Classes should cover hydrology, geophysics, chemistry, and mathematics.

Hydrologist Career Prospects

Hydrologists work for government agencies private companies, and universities. The field gives chances to advance, with jobs from research techs to project leads. Getting certified by groups like the American Institute of Hydrology can boost career options.

Environmental Engineers

Environmental engineers protect the environment by creating sustainable answers to environmental problems. They aim to cut pollution, handle waste, and make the best use of natural resources. These committed experts use engineering ideas to build green technologies and methods that tackle urgent environmental issues.

Environmental Engineer Duties

These engineers have many duties such as:

• Creating and rolling out tech solutions to tackle environmental issues.
• Gathering and examining data about the environment.
• Carrying out risk evaluations and quality checks.
• Spotting areas where humans harm the environment.
• Designing methods that match company green goals.
• Doing studies on other energy options.
• Making sure rules are followed.
• Building ties with people who care about the environment.

Environmental Engineer Education

To work as an environmental engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or something close to civil, chemical, or mechanical engineering. Many jobs want people with a master’s degree or higher. Key classes include environmental tech, sustainability, and engineering basics.

Environmental Engineer Career Prospects

The job outlook for environmental engineers looks good, with jobs expected to increase by 4% from 2021 to 2031 according to projections. Environmental engineers’ median yearly salary has risen to about $100,820, a slight increase from the year 2021. Jobs are available in different areas such as government offices consulting businesses, and private firms. As they gain experience environmental engineers can focus on specific fields like water pollution control or waste management, or move into leadership positions.

Climate Change Policy Analysts

Climate change policy analysts tackle global environmental issues head-on. They study and examine policy changes linked to climate change suggesting laws public education efforts, and ways to raise funds. These committed experts offer analysis support for policy summaries on green energy, energy conservation, and climate change.

Climate Change Policy Analyst Responsibilities

These professional analysts handle various tasks such as:

• Suggesting new or updated policies on standard and alternative fuels.
• Writing reports and summaries for government and environmental organizations.
• Breaking down and explaining research results to interested parties.
• Sharing climate-related facts at community gatherings.
• Examining current rules for their effects on the environment.

Climate Change Policy Analyst Education

Most entry-level jobs need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science building science, or a similar field. However many positions require a master’s degree to move up. Key skills include knowing how to use analytical software geographic information systems, and being good at talking to people.

Climate Change Policy Analyst Career Prospects

The employment outlook for environmental scientists and specialists, including climate change policy analysts, looks good. Jobs in this field are expected to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than average, with 6,900 job openings each year. The typical salary is between $72,898 and $97,998 a year, with an average salary of $85,011. This could range between $105,363 if we add in additional cash compensation (bonuses and incentives).

Water Resource Specialists

Water resource specialists have an essential part in looking after and safeguarding water resources. They create and put into action programs linked to water supply, quality, and following regulations. These experts carry out hydrologic, hydraulic, and water quality modeling to examine storm-water systems and find ways to make them better.

Water Resource Specialist Responsibilities

They have many duties such as:

• Investigating water storage, wastewater discharge, and pollutants.
• Helping local and state governments with planning and watershed resource management.
• Doing engineering work in environmental hazard prevention and control.
• Creating projects to provide drinking water and dispose of wastewater.

Water Resource Specialist Education

You usually need a bachelor’s or master’s degree to get this job. The education you need can be different depending on the position. Many of the job listings ask for a bachelor’s degree, while others ask for a master’s degree. It will depend on the company where you find employment.

Water Resource Specialist Career Prospects

The job prospects for water resource specialists look good, with new opportunities expected to pop up down the road. Pay ranges from $77,520 to $239,200+. The experience needed varies, with up to 50% of job listings asking for 0-2 years of experience.

Environmental Consultants

Environmental consultants help organizations deal with complex environmental issues. These experts provide assessment and advice to lessen the negative effects of industrial, commercial, and government projects on the environment. They help create, examine, and enforce rules to protect the environment from industrial dangers.

Environmental Consultant Responsibilities

They have many duties such as:

• Carrying out environmental assessments and audits.
• Reviewing current environmental policies and management systems.
• Creating and putting into action effective systems to reduce environmental harm.
• Making sure companies follow environmental laws and rules.
• Boosting company awareness about saving nature and being Eco-friendly.

Environmental Consultant Education

You need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering, or something similar to start in this field. But big companies often want people with higher degrees. They look for master’s, law degrees, MBAs, or PhDs in environmental science, economics, or public policy.

Environmental Consultant Career Prospects

Environmental consultants have job opportunities in consulting firms and government agencies, or they can start their own businesses. Many big industrial companies in manufacturing and production hire them. The average salary for environmental consultants in 2023 was $79,000, which is on the rise.

Environmental Microbiologists

Environmental microbiologists examine how microorganisms interact with their surroundings, which helps tackle environmental issues. They explore ways microbes can clean polluted sites and boost crop yields. These experts work in fields like environmental cleanup, government agencies, and research centers.

Environmental Microbiologist Responsibilities

They handle various tasks such as:

• Evaluating and tracking environmental conditions.
• Creating strategies to clean up polluted areas using living organisms.
• Improving biological methods in sewage treatment.
• Studying the variety of microbes and how ecosystems work.
• Testing soil, water, and air samples to find microorganisms.

Environmental Microbiologist Education

A bachelor’s degree in microbiology or a related field is essential to get entry-level jobs. Many professionals go for advanced degrees. Ph.D. graduates often begin their careers in postdoctoral research roles. Students take classes in microbiology, biochemistry, and cell biology.

Environmental Microbiologist Career Prospects

The job market for microbiologists looks good, with jobs expected to increase by 8% between 2016 and 2026. You can find work in different fields, like environmental consulting, government agencies, and biotech firms. As we face more environmental issues, we need more skilled environmental microbiologists in areas such as public health checking the environment, and growing in a way that lasts.

Chief Sustainability Officers

It is the role of the CSOs to implement green technologies and processes (including renewable energy systems and energy-efficient processes). CSOs are the bridge by which sustainability is incorporated into the core business strategy and operation of companies, guaranteeing that companies meet their environmental and social objectives.

Chief Sustainability Officer Responsibilities

Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) have a big impact on making sure companies follow the rules, keep an eye on ESG factors, and report on it. They also handle relationships with stakeholders. These officers run sustainability projects, help build up what the company can do, and change the company culture. CSOs also look for and test out new sustainability tech and work it into how the company makes decisions and does things.

Chief Sustainability Officer Education

Most CSOs have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business or something related to their job. Some might have studied engineering, accounting, money stuff, law, or how to run governments. To keep learning, CSOs often join groups like the International Society of Sustainability Professionals.

Chief Sustainability Officer Career Prospects

Experts predict a rise in CSO job openings, with 56,740 new positions expected by 2029. This represents a yearly growth of 3.12%. California, Florida, and Tennessee employ the most CSOs. Nebraska, Alaska, and Nevada have seen the fastest job growth for this career in recent years.

Air Pollution Analysts

Air pollution analysts have a key role to play in checking and evaluating air quality. They do research, run tests, and study data to find the sources of environmental issues. These experts work in different places such as indoor spaces and outdoor city areas where factories and traffic are most dense.

Air Pollution Analyst Responsibilities

These experts have a range of duties, including:

1. Carrying out environmental checks and audits.
2. Gathering and examining air samples.
3. Judging how possible activities might affect the environment.
4. Creating conservation plans.
5. Giving expert advice on environmental problems.

Air Pollution Analyst Education

To get an entry-level job, you need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering, or something similar. Many people in this field go on to get higher degrees. Some jobs even ask for a master’s or a PhD. Key classes you’ll take include environmental science, chemistry, biology, and math.

Air Pollution Analyst Career Prospects

The career prospects for environmental scientists, including air pollution analysts, look good. Jobs in this field are expected to increase by 6% between 2022 and 2032, which is quicker than usual. This growth will create about 6,900 job openings each year. People can find work in government offices private businesses, research centers, and non-profit groups.

Environmental Economists

Environmental economists study how environmental policies and natural resource use affect the economy. They research topics like alternative fuel use, land conservation, and pollution control. These experts help balance economic growth with protecting the environment.

Environmental Economist Responsibilities

They have many jobs such as:

1. Studying the economics of protecting the environment.
2. Figuring out what environmental policies cost and what good they do.
3. Creating economic models and predictions.
4. Writing research proposals and applying for grants.
5. Producing technical documents and statements about environmental impacts.

Environmental Economist Education

You need a master’s degree or Ph.D. to work as an economist. Yet, some companies might hire you for entry-level jobs if you have a bachelor’s in economics. To keep up with changes in the environment and economic rules, you must keep learning.

Environmental Economist Career Prospects

The job scene for economists, including those focused on the environment, looks good. Jobs in this field are expected to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than usual, with around 1,200 job openings each year. You can find work in government offices consulting companies, and non-profit groups.

Conclusion

In summary, environmental science is a broad and wide area of study with an array of job opportunities for those who are enthusiastic about protecting and learning how to care for our planet. Because environmental scientists address such global challenges as changing climate, pollution, biodiversity loss, and more, the need to solve them is great. Environmental scientists encompass a wide variety of disciplines, including ecologists, hydrologists, environmental engineers, geologists, and atmospheric scientists, who bring a unique set of skills to contribute to the big picture in environmental problem-solving.

An individual wishing to pursue a career in this field often needs a solid education in biology, chemistry, geology, and environmental studies, along with a degree or certification from an accredited university or college. It is important to note that there is a wide range of job opportunities available in government agencies, private companies, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions, offering a variety of opportunities to make a difference in the world.

With ever-increasing pressure on the environment, the need for professionals skilled in this domain will likely increase, presenting you with a chance not only to have a useful job but to make a lasting contribution to the well-being of our planet. From research to sustainable technologies to policy-making, environmental scientists and specialists are critical to creating a sustainable future for those generations to come.

References and Sources

Below you will find references and sources used for the above article:

• unity.edu: Website: Unity Environmental University: “Top 8 Environmental Science Jobs in High Demand.”
• www.bls.gov: Website: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: “Environmental Scientists and Specialists.”
• www.indeed.com: Website: Indeed: “Environmental Scientist Job Description.”
• www.energy.gov: Website: Department of Energy: “Career Map: Environmental Scientist.”
• www.prospects.ac.uk: Website: Prospects: “Environmental science.”

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